Question 1: Which of these can be used for uterine artery embolization for fibroid uterus?
- A. Polyvinyl alcohol (Correct Answer)
- B. Methylene blue
- C. Ethacridine lactate
- D. Polyglactin
Explanation: **Polyvinyl alcohol**
- **Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)** particles are commonly used as embolization material in **uterine artery embolization (UAE)** for fibroids.
- These particles create **permanent occlusion** of the small arteries supplying the fibroids, leading to their shrinkage.
*Methylene blue*
- **Methylene blue** is a dye used for diagnostic purposes (e.g., to identify fistulas) and as an **antiseptic**, not for embolization.
- It does not have the physical properties required to achieve arterial occlusion.
*Ethacridine lactate*
- **Ethacridine lactate** is an **antiseptic** and **abortifacient**, primarily used in second-trimester abortions.
- It is not used as an embolization agent for fibroids.
*Polyglactin*
- **Polyglactin** is a commonly used material for **absorbable sutures** (e.g., Vicryl).
- It is designed to be absorbed by the body over time and is not suitable for **permanent arterial occlusion** in embolization procedures.